 |
Wednesday, May 20, 2009 - 3:00 PM
437
Spatial variation in littoral fish community composition of a small reservoir relative to physical, chemical, and biological gradients
Nathan A. Ruhl, Jessica Soski, and Warren, J. S. Currie. Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701
Reservoirs are gradient dominated systems characterized by distinct fluvial (riverine) and lacustrine (lake-like) zones that are buffered by the less distinct transitional zone. The ecological response of organisms to this graded lentic habitat, relative to what might be expected in a natural lake, is not typically addressed in studies. Here we present a study of the littoral fish community within a representative reservoir and relate community composition to spatial variation in physical, chemical, and biological variables. A significant relationship between factors usually associated with fish community composition such as substrate composition, rooted vegetation, and prey availability was not found. However, a significant relationship between community composition and mean depth (along the reservoir continuum), turbidity, and littoral zone-area was observed. The results are discussed in relation to previous studies using different methodologies.
Web Page: Reservoirs, Fish, Spatial Ecology
See more of Community Ecology V
See more of Contributed Sessions
See more of The NABS 57th Annual Meeting (16-23 May, 2009)
See more of Contributed Sessions
See more of The NABS 57th Annual Meeting (16-23 May, 2009)